Finite element modeling of human ear with external ear canal and middle ear cavity

Two technologies, 3-D reconstruction of human temporal bones and finite element analysis of ear biomechanics, were combined to construct a computational model for describing function of the ear for sound transmission. A set of histological sections of a human temporal bone was prepared, scanned, and digitized for imaging analysis. The aligned and treated images of the middle ear components, external ear canal and middle ear cavity were constructed with attached ligaments, muscles, and tendons. A 3-D CAD model was first created which provided accurate geometric data. Based on the solid model, the finite element (FE) model of the human ear was generated with whole middle ear and ear canal. The dynamic behavior of the FE model was very close to the actual mechanical performance of human temporal bone with 90 dB SPL at the eardrum across auditory frequencies. The model will be further used for acoustic analysis of the ear. (Supported by Whitaker Foundation and OCAST).